Athletes as Activists
Choosing to play a sport is much more than a love for the activity - it's part of the athlete's identity and their values. In this Exploration Guide for students in middle school, see how Colin Kaepernick, Megan Rapinoe and Ibtihaj Muhammad balance their love for the sport with their values. You'll also learn about the history of protest in sports and about one of the greatest sports heroes, Muhammad Ali.
-
You Can't Put Muhammad Ali in a Poem by Juan Felipe Herrera | poets.org
Muhammad Ali was a boxer who also stood up for racial justice in the 1960s. This poem by United States Post Laureate, Juan Felipe Herrera, explores Ali's fighting skill as well as his political activism.
View You Can't Put Muhammad Ali in a Poem by Juan Felipe Herrera | poets.org -
Who Is Muhammad Ali?
This popular book series will tell you about Muhammad Ali’s life inside and outside the boxing ring.
Format: eBook
View Who Is Muhammad Ali? -
Muhammad Ali | Eyes On the Prize Documentary
In this episode of an award-winning documentary, you’ll get an in-depth look at how Muhammad Ali was much more than a great boxer. He was proud of his religious beliefs and African heritage, and took a stand against the American government on their role in racial injustice and involvement in the Vietnam War.
View Muhammad Ali | Eyes On the Prize Documentary -
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Calls Colin Kaepernick's Concerns 'Very Admirable' | Code Switch : NPR
Many people disaggreed with Muhammad Ali speaking up for his beliefs in the 1960s just as many people disagree with NLF player Colin Kaepernick kneeling for his beliefs in 2016. Basketball legend and activist, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, discusses his thoughts on Kaepernick’s decision to kneel as a form of protest in this short podcast.
View Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Calls Colin Kaepernick's Concerns 'Very Admirable' | Code Switch : NPR -
Colin Kaepernick featured on TIME cover | Sports Illustrated Kids
San Francisco 49er quarterback Colin Kaepernick was alone when he protested the national anthem during football games and many Americans didn't agree with his actions.
View Colin Kaepernick featured on TIME cover | Sports Illustrated Kids -
Colin Kaepernick | My Hero
Find out what makes Colin Kaepernick a hero to Randy from Fredericksburg. Note that Randy wrote this essay February 1, 2016 - six months before Colin began taking a knee during the national anthem and becoming a hero for many more people.
View Colin Kaepernick | My Hero -
Colin Kaepernick receives Ambassador of Conscience Award | Amnesty International
Watch Colin Kaepernick's acceptance speech for the Amnesty International's Ambassador of Conscience Award 2018. Hear why he continues to stand by his values after being rejected by the NFL and many Americans.
View Colin Kaepernick receives Ambassador of Conscience Award | Amnesty International -
How Can I Not Kneel Too? | Sports Illustrated Kids
U.S. Soccer player Megan Rapinoe shows her solidarity with NFL player Colin Kaepernick by kneeling during the national anthem at soccer games. Why do you think Megan decided to take a knee even after she saw the criticism that players who kneeled faced?
View How Can I Not Kneel Too? | Sports Illustrated Kids -
Megan Rapinoe: When Waychy and I Ruled the Playground | WNT Animated, Presented by Ritz
Did you know Megan Rapinoe has a twin sister? Watch a short video as she reminisces about her glory days on the kindergarten playground with her twin sister, Rachael.
View Megan Rapinoe: When Waychy and I Ruled the Playground | WNT Animated, Presented by Ritz -
Megan Rapinoe | Team USA
Check out Megan Rapinoe's profile from Team USA. Get a snapshot of some of her achievements and interests.
View Megan Rapinoe | Team USA